Tampa- snorkeling with manatees

[Robrph]

Has anyone done a trip in Tampa to the Crystal River to snorkel with the manatees? Saw this on several websites and it looks to be some experience. One thing I noted was that the temperature of the water is constantly around 70 degrees- seems cold, at least with other parts of Florida. Do you need to use wetsuits? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

Rob

[tadjr]

Crystal River is a couple hours North of Tampa. You are probably swimming in one of the several fresh water springs whose water temp is around 72 degrees all year long. No info on swimming with the manatees though, sorry.

[dolphincruiser404]

I have never gone on the Manatee swim, although I am doing it next month. The water sounds cold, and it is a bit cool, but I go diving in the springs all the time and it isn't that bad. I don't wear a wetsuit. Once you get in and get moving around you get used to it.

[mayrashke]

Please let me know the price etc. for your manatee swim. Did you have to scuba or can you snorkel?? Where/with what company will you do this?

We love manatees and hope to see some in the wild. Maybe in Belize on our cruise in Jan./05 or in Florida whenever we get there again(will not be able to do it in Jan./05 though). I am trying to find out as much info as possible re:sightings of manatees. Thank-you.

[tadjr]

I dont think you can snorkel with them here, but the TECO Electric company has a manatee viewing center open for visitors during the winter.

http://www.tampaelectric.com/TEEVMVCFront.cfm will take you to the info. Its about 20-30 mins south of the port area.

[mayrashke]

Thanks tadjr for the website. I am going to put it in My Favorites. My oldest child did a speech on manatees a couple of years ago. We hope to see them in the wild one day!